Love live music? It’s likely that you’ve experienced years of loud sound exposure.
It’s no surprise, live music is a rush. But, don’t let that excitement diminish your commitment to hearing protection. And once your hearing is gone, it’s gone for good.
Believe me - as an audiologist, I’ve met many music enthusiasts with hearing loss or tinnitus due to years of live concert exposure.
You only get one pair of ears, so let's cherish them, shall we? Fortunately, there are even stylish options nowadays, so you can invest in a pair and rock out to your heart's content without hearing damage!
So let's take a deep dive into the world of earplugs. There’s some great options on the market, and here are my audiologist-approved selections for your consideration.
- Live music and concerts are fun - we get it. But protecting your ears ensures you'll continue to enjoy music for years to come.
- High fidelity earplugs are a must for music lovers. You'll enjoy the richness of the music, just at a lower volume.
- Our key selection criteria when it comes to live music: comfort and fit, noise reduction (while preserving sound quality), and lifespan. Extra points for stylishness and convenient carrying cases.
- Our top picks include: Loop Experience 2 , Eargasm Small Ear Earplugs, Vibes, and more.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 2,000,000 people shopped on Soundly in 2024
- 100% independently owned and operated
Read more about our company, services and process here.
Featured in this article
There’s no shortage of earplugs out there, but not all are designed with live music in mind. The best options protect your ears and preserve the energy and detail of the performance.
Whether you want a discreet look, adjustable noise levels, or a better fit for smaller ears, there’s something here for you.
Our Top Earplug Picks for Live Music Lovers 👇
Loop Experience 2
- Certified Protection: Reduces sound by 17dB (SNR), helping prevent long-term hearing damage.
- Sound Clarity: Filters out harmful volume while preserving music detail and voice clarity.
- Secure Fit: Comes with multiple ear tip sizes for a snug fit, even during movement.
- Reusable Design: Easy to clean and built for regular use across different settings.
The Loop Experience earplugs offer an appealing combination of certified hearing protection and sleek design, making them a smart pick for anyone attending loud events or live music venues.
- Certified 17dB noise reduction keeps sound crisp while lowering volume to safer levels, helping users enjoy music without compromising their hearing.
- Custom-fit ear tips and a secure design ensure comfort and stability, even during high-energy movement or long nights out.
These popular earplugs from Loop are a reliable option for users who want to protect their hearing without sacrificing audio clarity or style.
- Clearer Sound Without the Ringing: Many users report reduced post-event ear ringing, especially in clubs or loud venues, noting the sound remains clear and enjoyable.
- Useful in Daily Life Too: People use them beyond events — at home with kids or while working — appreciating the way they reduce noise without cutting them off from important sounds.
- Secure and Easy Fit: The earplugs stay in place during movement and are quick to insert, making them convenient for on-the-go use.
- Stylish and Discreet: Users like the sleek look and find them more discreet than traditional foam plugs, suitable for both social and professional settings.
- Not Ideal for Heavy Use: Some noted wear and tear over time, particularly with the filter and cord connection, suggesting they may be better suited to occasional rather than daily use.
Overall, users value the Loop Experience for its balance of protection and sound clarity, especially in social environments.
- Reduces volume while maintaining sound quality for safe listening
- Comes with multiple ear tip sizes to suit various ear shapes
- Stylish and discreet design suitable for public or professional settings
- Compact carry case included for portability and hygiene
- Reusable and easy to clean for long-term use
- Filters may degrade faster with frequent use compared to some competitors
- Less comfortable for sleeping compared to plugs made for overnight wear
- Silicone cord ends (if used) may weaken with repeated pulling
- Some users report only a subtle improvement over basic earplugs
Eargasm Smaller Ears Earplugs
- Secure Fit – Includes two shell sizes made for the smallest 20% of ear canals.
- Noise Reduction – Lowers sound evenly by up to 21 dB (NRR 15 dB) to reduce risk of hearing damage.
- Clarity-Preserving Filters – Keeps voices and music clear while reducing harsh volume spikes.
- Portable Design – Comes with a waterproof metal case for on-the-go storage and easy access.
The Eargasm Smaller Ears Earplugs offer a tailored option for people with narrower ear canals who need everyday hearing protection.
- The dual-size silicone shells are shaped for a more secure, low-profile fit - helpful if standard earplugs feel loose or uncomfortable.
- Attenuation filters lower volume by up to 21 dB without muffling, making them useful for concerts, busy spaces, or noise sensitivity.
They also come with a waterproof keychain case, so they’re easy to take anywhere. Ideal if you’ve struggled to find earplugs that fit well and still let you stay connected to your surroundings.
- Great Fit for Small Ears – Many users with petite ear canals say these earplugs fit comfortably and stay in place, especially compared to standard sizes.
- Reduces Ringing After Events – Concertgoers report significantly less ear ringing post-show, with sound levels toned down but still clear.
- Clearer Sound Than Alternatives – Several reviewers preferred these over Loops, noting better clarity, especially in live music settings.
- Durable, Handy Carry Case – The waterproof screw-top case earns praise for keeping the plugs secure, though some find it slightly bulky for keychains.
- A Few Fit Adjustments Needed – A handful of users needed to press the plugs back in during active use or noted occasional fit issues due to ear shape.
- Designed specifically for smaller ear canals
- Reduces harmful noise while maintaining overall sound clarity
- Hypoallergenic silicone for comfortable, long-term wear
- Discreet appearance with transparent color options
- Waterproof case is sturdy and convenient for travel
- May not fit those with average or larger ear canals
- Some users may need to adjust the plugs during high activity
- Case may feel bulky on keychains
- No built-in volume control or custom tuning
- Earplugs are small and easy to misplace without the case
Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs
- Reduces harmful noise levels while preserving sound clarity for better communication.
- Slim, nearly invisible design provides discreet protection suitable for all-day wear.
- Multiple silicone tip sizes ensure a comfortable, secure fit for various ear shapes.
- Includes a durable travel case for easy portability and storage.
Vibes High Fidelity Earplugs are designed to protect your hearing by reducing damaging noise levels without compromising sound clarity.
- Their advanced filters lower volume by targeting specific frequencies, so you can still enjoy music and hold conversations clearly in loud environments like concerts, construction sites, or sporting events.
- The slim, low-profile silicone earbuds come in multiple sizes for a comfortable, secure fit that stays discreet and can be worn for hours without discomfort.
Included is a hard travel case that keeps them safe and easy to carry. For those exposed to frequent noise but who want to preserve audio detail, Vibes offer practical, reusable hearing protection that balances safety with sound quality.
- Effective Noise Reduction: Users report Vibes reduce harmful volume while preserving sound clarity, making noisy settings easier to handle.
- Comfortable Fit: Multiple silicone tip sizes offer a secure, comfortable fit suitable for extended wear without irritation.
- Discreet Design: The slim, nearly invisible profile is favored for professional and casual use over bulkier alternatives.
- Portability and Case Issues: The travel case is convenient but differs from the advertised version; some users mention it’s easy to misplace.
- Customer Support and Durability: Vibes are durable and easy to clean, with responsive support addressing concerns like case replacements.
Overall, Vibes provide reliable hearing protection with clear sound, comfort, and discreetness, despite minor issues around case design and loss risk.
- Low-profile design makes earplugs almost invisible when worn.
- Filters target specific frequencies, reducing volume without muffling sound.
- Suitable for a wide range of users due to multiple size options.
- Reusable and easy to clean for ongoing use.
- Portable case helps protect and carry earplugs on the go.
- Earplugs can be easy to misplace due to their small size.
- Some users report slight sound distortion despite clear audio filtering.
- Not suitable for complete noise blackout if total silence is required.
EarPeace High Fidelity Concert Ear Plugs
- Adjustable filters offer noise reduction up to 26dB, allowing users to tailor protection to their environment.
- Made from soft, hypoallergenic silicone for comfortable, reusable wear suitable for sensitive ears.
- Designed to maintain clear, natural sound quality while reducing harmful noise levels.
- Comes with multiple sizes and filters to ensure a secure and personalized fit.
The Earpeace High Fidelity Earplugs are designed to offer clear audio quality while reducing harmful noise levels, appealing to music lovers who want to protect their hearing without losing sound detail.
- Multiple interchangeable filters provide adjustable noise reduction up to 26dB, allowing users to tailor the earplugs to different environments and personal comfort preferences.
- Made from soft, hypoallergenic silicone, these earplugs offer a comfortable, reusable fit suitable for sensitive ears, which helps reduce the need for frequent replacements.
These earplugs balance effective hearing protection with maintaining sound clarity, making them a practical option for concertgoers and festival attendees looking for reliable ear protection.
- Comfortable, Secure Fit: Users appreciate the soft silicone material and multiple size options, reporting that the earplugs stay in place well even during active use like concerts.
- Effective Noise Reduction: The adjustable filters allow for tailored sound dampening, helping users protect their hearing without overly muffling music or other sounds.
- Sound Clarity Maintained: Many mention that the earplugs reduce volume without distorting the music, allowing for a clear listening experience at loud events.
- Convenient Storage: The compact carrying case with separate compartments for filters is praised for keeping all parts organized and easy to carry.
- Small Parts Require Care: Some users note the interchangeable filters are small and can be easy to misplace, suggesting cautious handling.
Overall, the Earpeace High Fidelity Earplugs offer a reliable balance of comfort, protection, and sound quality, making them a practical choice for music fans and noise-sensitive users.
- Provides effective hearing protection without muffling sound quality.
- Reusable design reduces the need for frequent replacements.
- Multiple filter options accommodate different noise environments.
- Hypoallergenic materials minimize irritation for sensitive ears.
- Compact carrying case organizes earplugs and filters securely.
- Small interchangeable filters can be easy to lose if not handled carefully.
- May require trial and error to find the most comfortable fit.
- Not suitable for complete noise cancellation or industrial noise levels.
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic foam earplugs.
Loop Switch 2
- Adjustable Sound Control: Switch between three listening modes to manage noise based on your environment.
- Secure, Comfortable Fit: Comes with four ear tip sizes for a snug, all-day wear.
- Certified Noise Protection: Helps protect hearing in loud environments like concerts or commutes.
- Discreet, Durable Design: Slim, low-profile body with a protective carry case for daily portability.
The Loop Switch 2 earplugs offer versatile, user-controlled noise management in a sleek, everyday-friendly design.
- The adjustable dial and three distinct modes - Quiet, Experience, and Engage, allow users to fine-tune their sound environment, whether they’re trying to stay focused, stay connected, or block out noise.
- A choice of four silicone ear tip sizes, paired with a slimmer body, helps ensure a comfortable, secure fit for extended wear without irritation.
With certified noise protection and a reusable design, the Loop Switch 2 suits anyone looking for reliable, adjustable hearing support throughout the day.
- Great for Daily Use: Worn regularly on commutes, at work, and at events—many say they’ve become part of their routine.
- Easy Sound Adjustment: The three modes make it simple to switch between focus, awareness, and noise relief.
- Stylish Design: Users love the sleek look and color choices, often mentioning them as a standout feature.
- Not Ideal for Sleep: Some find them uncomfortable for side sleeping and prefer a different model overnight.
- Fit Isn’t Perfect for Everyone: A few report trouble getting a secure or comfortable fit, even with multiple tip sizes.
- Handles Loud Environments Well: Quiet and Engage modes are especially appreciated at concerts and other noisy settings.
Most agree the Switch 2 is a versatile option for everyday sound control, though comfort may vary.
- Three noise control modes for flexible use
- Redesigned dial allows smooth in-ear adjustments
- Multiple ear tip sizes improve comfort and fit
- Reusable and easy to clean
- Lightweight and low-profile for discreet wear
- May not be comfortable for side sleeping
- Fit can be inconsistent for some ear shapes
- Not designed for complete silence during rest
- Manual dial may require occasional adjustment for accuracy
Why are special music earplugs a concert essential?
Well, to put it simply, because concerts are extremely loud.
People often don't realize this, but hearing damage starts at approximately 85 decibels (dB), while the average concert easily exceeds that, peaking at times around 120 dB. That’s a significant uptick in decibels.
Hearing protection isn't the end of the story. At a concert, you have competing priorities. On the one hand, you need to protect your hearing, but on the other hand, you want to enjoy the actual sounds of the concert. This is where high-fidelity earplugs come in.
All music-focused earplugs work similarly - they include a filter that attempts to bring down the volume equally across frequencies (sometimes called "flat frequency response").
And that damage is cumulative, so the more concerts you attend without ear protection, the more at risk you are. That's where earplugs come in, saving your ears from becoming a music casualty while still having a blast (pun intended).
What should I look for in good live music earplugs?
A good pair of concert earplugs should protect your ears, but that's just the baseline. Here are some other important factors to consider:
Comfort and Fit
If the earplugs are a pain in your ear, you're unlikely to wear them, so make sure they're comfortable for your aural senses to enjoy.
NRR Rating
The effectiveness of hearing protection is notated as noise reduction rating (aka, NRR). There are some quirky nuances to NRR, but NRR is the minimum protection each product will provide. NRR 15, for example, will at least reduce volumes by 15 dB.
Music-focused earplugs typically reduce noise from 13 - 18 dB. Construction workers and hunters should opt for alternate products with NRR ratings in the 20s or above.
Lifespan
Are you a one-time user or do you want something reusable? Foam earplugs are easy to find and cheap, but let's face it, they're not the best for hearing your favorite tunes. They also last for only 1-2 uses.
On the other hand, custom-fitted earplugs are top-notch, provide targeted protection that's oh-so-comfortable, and they last for years.
As an in-between option, if you want something affordable yet high-quality, check out brands like Loop, Eargasm, and Vibes.
With any of these options, you’ll be able to protect your ears with style and pizzazz. These higher quality options will also preserve the quality of music with minimal distortion.
What is the lifespan of my earplugs?
The answer depends on a few factors, like the material and brand.
Most of our earplug options boast silicone-based designs, such as the Loop Earplugs with easy-to-clean, replaceable silicone ear tips. These ear tips will serve you well for three to six months, a decent lifespan!
Eargasm customers report enjoying an astounding lifespan of one to three years with regular cleaning; now, that's a lot of concerts!
But wait, there's more! Unfortunately, Vibes doesn't sell silicone earpieces separately, so you'll need to buckle up for an entirely new pair every three to six months.
Final Thoughts
As an audiologist, I’ve seen firsthand how years of loud concerts can take a toll on hearing health.
The good news? It’s never too late to start protecting your ears, and thanks to modern earplug design, you don’t have to sacrifice sound quality to do it.
Whether you’re chasing front-row energy or enjoying an outdoor festival, the right earplugs can reduce harmful noise while preserving the details that make live music feel alive.
One concert with earplugs might not feel like a big shift. But over time, that small habit can make all the difference.
